Iran’s football federation has announced that the United States of America has rescinded its allocation of tickets for the World Cup group matches, alleging that the co-host is hindering the attendance of Iranian fans amid a tense diplomatic dispute.
The US has imposed several bureaucratic obstacles for Iran at the international football event, including the denial of visas for some support staff, as the two nations remain in conflict following the US and Israel’s assault on Iran in late February.
“With less than three days left until the commencement of the 2026 World Cup… the United States has once again taken steps to prevent Iranian supporters from attending the stadiums where the national team will play its three group stage matches,” the federation stated in a release.
The Iranian football organization pointed out that FIFA regulations stipulate an allocation of eight percent of tickets for each match, which are to be distributed by participating federations to their fans through official channels.
As per the statement, Iran had already initiated ticket sales for group stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt — all scheduled to take place in the US — after receiving its designated quota, with some fans having made necessary travel arrangements.
“However, in a surprising turn of events, the allocation provided to the Iranian Football Federation has been revoked, and under the current situation, the federation is unable to offer even a single ticket to the national team’s supporters,” it added.
The federation characterized this action as “contrary to the spirit of international competitions and the principle of equality among participating nations.”
It also urged FIFA and the tournament organizers “to adhere to the principles of neutrality, fairness, and established regulations, ensuring the necessary conditions for Iranian supporters.”
Neither FIFA nor US organizers have publicly responded to the allegations made by Iran.
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